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Hung P, Miciak M, Godziuk K, Gross DP, Forhan M. Reducing weight bias and stigma in qualitative research interviews: Considerations for researchers. Obes Rev 2024; 25:e13750. [PMID: 38685680 DOI: 10.1111/obr.13750] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Academic Contribution Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
Perceptions and biases influence how we interact with and experience the world, including in professional roles as researchers. Weight bias, defined as negative attitudes or perceptions towards people that have large bodies, can contribute to weight stigma and discrimination leading to negative health and social consequences. Weight bias is experienced by people living with obesity in media, health care, education, employment and social settings. In research settings, there is potential for weight bias to impact various aspects of qualitative research including the participant-researcher dynamic in interviews. However, evidence-based strategies to reduce weight bias in qualitative research interviews have yet to be identified. We discuss how weight bias may influence research interviews and identify several considerations and strategies for researchers to minimize the impact of weight bias. Strategies include practicing reflexivity, planning and conducting interviews in ways that support rapport building, using inclusive language, and considering participatory methods.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pam Hung
- Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Maxi Miciak
- Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Kristine Godziuk
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Nutritional Science, Faculty of Agricultural, Life and Environmental Sciences, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Douglas P Gross
- Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Mary Forhan
- Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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Minton EA, Wang CX, Anthony CM, Fox AK. The Process Model of Stigmatized Loss: Identity-Threatened Experiences of Bereaved Mothers. QUALITATIVE HEALTH RESEARCH 2023; 33:1262-1278. [PMID: 37848195 DOI: 10.1177/10497323231203643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Academic Contribution Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2023]
Abstract
Despite almost one-third of women suffering from the loss of a baby through miscarriage, stillbirth, or infant loss, it is surprising how little research examines how such loss affects the identity and stigmas experienced by these individuals. Through in-depth, semi-structured interviews with bereaved mothers (in particular, mothers who lost a baby during pregnancy or within one year after birth), this research sheds light on the bereaved mother's experiences after loss. Specifically, this research applies the identity-threat model of stigma to showcase the process of stigmatized loss. Based on our findings, we also introduce the process model of stigmatized loss that can apply to all types of stigmatized loss. Key themes emerged as we explored stigmatized loss discourses. These include situational cues that trigger stigma, identity-based responses that aim to preserve both a baby's and mother's identity, as well as nonvolitional and volitional responses that help restore control and reconstruct identity. Additionally, other themes revolve around positive and negative outcomes stemming from avoiding stigmatized identity activation and identification of triggers that initiate a recursive process through stigmatized baby loss. Importantly, stigma can be perceived as both an identity threat (negative) and an identity confirmation (positive). Findings inform theory and practice alike.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Cindy Xin Wang
- California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo, CA, USA
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Beckman S, Castañeda X, Rivas L, Schenker MB. California cannabis cultivation and processing workers: A qualitative analysis of physiological exposures and health effects. Am J Ind Med 2023; 66:75-84. [PMID: 36398400 DOI: 10.1002/ajim.23442] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Academic Contribution Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Revised: 11/03/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cannabis is a multi-billion-dollar California industry, but little is known about the occupational hazards or health experiences of cannabis cultivation workers. Respiratory and dermal exposures, musculoskeletal hazards, and other agricultural hazards have been identified in previous research. Even in a post-legalization framework, cannabis work is stigmatized and most cannabis is still produced illegally. Qualitative research is essential for establishing rapport with cannabis workers to understand their experiences and concerns. METHODS We conducted semi-structured discussions with four focus groups including 32 cannabis workers total, and 9 key informants who were workers, industry experts, and business owners or managers. Transcribed results were analyzed to identify key themes on physiological exposures and health effects. RESULTS The majority (81.3%) of focus group participants were seasonal migrant cannabis trimmers. Themes emerged of respiratory and dermal exposures and outcomes, musculoskeletal disorders, and physical hazards including living conditions. Workers reported respiratory symptoms and rashes from exposure to cannabis, mold, and pesticides. Musculoskeletal pain was ubiquitous due to inadequate seating and long shifts performing repetitive tasks. Seasonal workers experienced chronic exposure to cold conditions and unsanitary housing. Management-level interviewees and other industry stakeholders described concerns and experiences that differed from those of workers. DISCUSSION The results were consistent with existing research on cannabis worker health, with workers reporting respiratory and dermal exposure and symptoms, musculoskeletal hazards, and physical hazards associated with agricultural work. In addition, we found that workers were affected by substandard living conditions, remote and isolated work environments, and an absence of training.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stella Beckman
- Center for Health and the Environment, University of California, Davis, Davis, California, USA
| | - Xóchitl Castañeda
- Health Initiative of the Americas, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Likhi Rivas
- Health Initiative of the Americas, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Marc B Schenker
- Department of Public Health Sciences, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, Davis, California, USA
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Øgård-Repål A, Berg RC, Skogen V, Fossum M. "They make a difference": a qualitative study of providers' experiences of peer support in outpatient clinics for people living with HIV. BMC Health Serv Res 2022; 22:1380. [PMID: 36411443 PMCID: PMC9676711 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-022-08810-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Academic Contribution Register] [Received: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although the life expectancy of people living with HIV has increased, they are still often disconnected from society through stigma and discrimination. Peer support has been found to increase social support. Given the limited research on peer support from the providers' perspective, this study explored how peer supporters experience their roles and contributions in outpatient clinics (OPCs). Additionally, healthcare professionals' perceptions of working with peer supporters in OPCs were examined. METHODS: This qualitative study included purposively selected peer supporters (n = 10) and healthcare professionals (n = 5) from five OPCs in Norway in 2020. In-depth interviews and focus group discussions were conducted in Norwegian or English, using interview guides. Interview transcripts were analysed in NVivo 12 using reflexive and collaborative thematic analysis. RESULTS The results show that peer supporters experience mutual support through emotional and honest interactions. Further, the peer supporters found it essential to negotiate with the service users about their preconception of HIV, confront their views through dialogue, and replicate positive experiences by being credible role models. The participants expressed that integrating peer support in the OPCs' usual care processes increased the prospect of equitable services. Quality of peer support and role clarity were identified as critical components. The results demonstrate that emotional and honest conversations promote support between peers and that peer supporters identify a need for a reframed understanding of HIV by modelling plausible alternative interpretations and coping experiences. CONCLUSIONS This study contributes to knowledge on how peer support can meet the needs of people living with HIV. Incorporating people living with HIV in the co-production and distribution of healthcare services may improve the knowledge and perspectives in healthcare services. However, the skill standards of peer supporters should be addressed when implementing peer support in usual care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anita Øgård-Repål
- grid.23048.3d0000 0004 0417 6230Centre for Caring Research, Department of Health and Nursing Science, University of Agder, Southern Norway, Grimstad, Aust-Agder, Norway
| | - Rigmor C. Berg
- grid.418193.60000 0001 1541 4204Reviews and Health Technology Assessments, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway ,grid.10919.300000000122595234Department of Community Medicine, University of Tromsø, The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Vegard Skogen
- grid.10919.300000000122595234Institute for Clinical Medicine, University of Tromsø, The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway ,grid.412244.50000 0004 4689 5540Department of Infectious Diseases, Medical Clinic, University Hospital of North Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Mariann Fossum
- grid.23048.3d0000 0004 0417 6230Centre for Caring Research, Department of Health and Nursing Science, University of Agder, Southern Norway, Grimstad, Aust-Agder, Norway
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Ballantine C. The Reaffirmation of Self? Narrative Inquiry for Researching Violence Against Women and Stigma. Violence Against Women 2021; 28:2231-2253. [PMID: 34424079 PMCID: PMC9118612 DOI: 10.1177/10778012211024269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Academic Contribution Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Stigma presents specific ethical and epistemological problems for qualitative researchers of violence against women. Narrative research methods promise to enable ethical research on violence while still offering deep insight into stigmatized topics. This article describes narrative methods used in six focus group discussions and four in-depth interviews with victim-survivors of violence against women, all African migrant women living in Ireland. The article connects narrative and stigma in research with the social lives of participants. It concludes with specific recommendations for creative uses of narrative inquiry to explore stigmatized themes, noting that stigma can never be entirely removed from the research encounter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carol Ballantine
- Centre for Global Women's Studies, School of Politics and Sociology, 8799NUI Galway, Dublin, Ireland
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Woods N, Hardman D. ‘It’s just absolutely everywhere’: understanding LGBTQ experiences of queerbaiting. PSYCHOLOGY & SEXUALITY 2021. [DOI: 10.1080/19419899.2021.1892808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Academic Contribution Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Woods
- Department of Psychology, Bournemouth University, Poole, UK
| | - Doug Hardman
- Department of Psychology, Bournemouth University, Poole, UK
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Jamie K, McGeagh L, Bows H, O'Neill R. 'I just don't think it's that natural': adolescent mothers' constructions of breastfeeding as deviant. SOCIOLOGY OF HEALTH & ILLNESS 2020; 42:1689-1708. [PMID: 32721051 DOI: 10.1111/1467-9566.13157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Academic Contribution Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Breastfeeding is recognised globally as the optimal method of infant feeding. For Murphy (1999) its nutritional superiority positions breastfeeding as a moral imperative where mothers who formula-feed are open to charges of maternal deviance and must account for their behaviour. We suggest that this moral superiority of breastfeeding is tenuous for mothers from marginalised contexts and competes with discourses which locate breastfeeding, rather than formula feeding, as maternal deviance. We draw on focus group and interview data from 27 adolescent mothers from socio-economically deprived neighbourhoods in three areas of the UK, and five early years professionals working at a Children's Centre in the Northeast of England. We argue that breastfeeding is constructed as deviance at three 'levels' as (i) a deviation from broad social norms about women's bodies, (ii) a deviation from local mothering behaviours and (iii) a transgression within micro-level interpersonal and familial relationships. Given this positioning of breastfeeding as deviant, breastfeeding mothers feel obliged to account for their deviance. In making this argument, we extend and rework Murphy's (1999) framework to encompass diverse experiences of infant feeding. We conclude with reflections on future research directions and potential implications for practice.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lucy McGeagh
- Oxford Institute of Nursing, Midwifery and Allied Health Research, Oxford Brookes University, Oxford, UK
| | - Hannah Bows
- Durham Law School, Durham University, Durham University, Durham, UK
| | - Roisin O'Neill
- Centre for Public Health, School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
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Abstract
As we approach Feminism & Psychology’s 30th anniversary, we reflect on and explore what makes the journal distinctive – its emphasis on critical feminist psychology. In this article and the accompanying Virtual Special Issue, we outline five methodological considerations that we believe are at the heart of critical feminist scholarship: 1) the politics of asking questions; 2) attention to language/discourse; 3) reflexivity; 4) representation and intersectionality; and 5) mobilizing research for social change. We then draw across a set of 15 articles published in the archives of Feminism & Psychology that showcase one or more of these key features and demonstrate the ‘doing’ of critical feminist psychology. These articles are housed on the journal’s website, as is an additional paper developed for students or those in a position of learning, which explores central ideas and debates that have culminated in critical feminist psychology.
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Allison K, Delany C, Setchell J, Egerton T, Holden M, Quicke J, Bennell K. A qualitative study exploring the views of individuals with knee osteoarthritis on the role of physiotherapists in weight management: A complex issue requiring a sophisticated skill set. Musculoskeletal Care 2019; 17:206-214. [PMID: 30821904 DOI: 10.1002/msc.1391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Academic Contribution Register] [Received: 01/10/2019] [Revised: 01/21/2019] [Accepted: 01/22/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The aim of the present study was to explore the attitudes of individuals with knee osteoarthritis (OA) towards the role of physiotherapists in weight management in knee OA. METHODS The study took the form of a qualitative semi-structured telephone interview study. Participants included 13 purposively sampled individuals with symptomatic knee OA who were overweight or obese by body mass index. Each participated in a semi-structured telephone interview exploring their perspectives regarding the potential role of physiotherapists in weight management in knee OA. Data were transcribed and analysed using a thematic approach. RESULTS Three main themes were identified, which highlighted that individuals with knee OA: (a) recognize that weight management is complex; (b) consider that a special skill set is required by clinicians for weight management; and (c) expressed ambivalence towards physiotherapists' role in weight management, with a focus on the role of exercise prescription. CONCLUSIONS Although participants were open to physiotherapists taking on a weight management role within a multidisciplinary team, they were uncertain about whether physiotherapists had the skills and scope of practice needed to address this complex issue. The findings highlight the importance of engagement by physiotherapists in meaningful dialogue with patients, to understand better their experiences, expectations and preferences, and establish if, when and how to integrate patients in weight management discussions in the treatment plan for their knee OA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kim Allison
- Centre for Health, Exercise and Sports Medicine, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Clare Delany
- Centre for Health, Exercise and Sports Medicine, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Jenny Setchell
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, University of Queensland, St Lucia, QLD, Australia
| | - Thorlene Egerton
- Centre for Health, Exercise and Sports Medicine, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Melanie Holden
- Research Institute for Primary Care & Health Science, Keele University, Newcastle-under-Lyme, UK
| | - Jonathan Quicke
- Research Institute for Primary Care & Health Science, Keele University, Newcastle-under-Lyme, UK
| | - Kim Bennell
- Centre for Health, Exercise and Sports Medicine, University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC, Australia
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Allison K, Setchell J, Egerton T, Delany C, Bennell KL. In Theory, Yes; in Practice, Uncertain: A Qualitative Study Exploring Physical Therapists' Attitudes Toward Their Roles in Weight Management for People With Knee Osteoarthritis. Phys Ther 2019; 99:601-611. [PMID: 30715519 DOI: 10.1093/ptj/pzz011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Academic Contribution Register] [Received: 12/20/2017] [Accepted: 10/23/2018] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Physical therapists are at the frontline of treatment for knee osteoarthritis (OA). International guidelines recommend weight loss for individuals with knee OA who are overweight, and research indicates that patients believe it is appropriate for physical therapists to address weight. OBJECTIVES The objective was to explore physical therapists' attitudes about their role in weight management for people with OA. DESIGN This was a qualitative semistructured telephone interview study. METHODS Participants included 13 purposively sampled physical therapists who had treated at least 1 patient with knee OA within the past 12 months. Each participated in a telephone interview exploring their perceptions and attitudes toward the role of physical therapists in providing weight management support for people with knee OA. Data were analyzed using a thematic approach. RESULTS Three main themes were identified, which highlighted that physical therapists: (1) believe they have a role in facilitating weight loss for people with knee OA; (2) are uncertain how to integrate weight loss into their management; and (3) are conscious of the psychosocial complexities and the need to tread cautiously around weight management. CONCLUSIONS Physical therapists are aware of the importance of weight loss in the management of knee OA, and believe weight management falls within their role and responsibilities; however, they do not feel equipped to fulfill this role. They also acknowledge the weight management conversation as potentially sensitive. This study highlights the need for training opportunities to develop physical therapists' skills and confidence in weight management for people with knee OA who are overweight, including consideration of the potential harms and benefits of this aspect of care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kim Allison
- Centre for Health, Exercise and Sports Medicine, The University of Melbourne, 160 Barry St, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Jenny Setchell
- School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Queensland, Australia
| | - Thorlene Egerton
- Centre for Health, Exercise and Sports Medicine, The University of Melbourne
| | - Clare Delany
- Department of General Practice, The University of Melbourne
| | - Kim L Bennell
- Centre for Health, Exercise and Sports Medicine, The University of Melbourne
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Ferndale D. “Nothing about us without us”: navigating engagement as hearing researcher in the Deaf community. QUALITATIVE RESEARCH IN PSYCHOLOGY 2018. [DOI: 10.1080/14780887.2017.1416802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Academic Contribution Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Urry K, Chur-Hansen A. Who decides when people can have sex? Australian mental health clinicians' perceptions of sexuality and autonomy. J Health Psychol 2018; 25:2188-2199. [PMID: 30035634 DOI: 10.1177/1359105318790026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Academic Contribution Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Sexuality is a central aspect of human experience but there is evidence that this is largely constrained, pathologised or ignored in mental health settings. We conducted in-depth interviews with 22 psychologists, psychiatrists and mental health nurses working across a variety of settings in four Australian cities. Sexuality was most often perceived as relevant in the mental health setting when it was simultaneously constructed as dangerous. Participants located this danger in sexual expression itself or within individuals who, because of mental illness, lacked the autonomy required to successfully engage in 'safe' sex. We discuss these findings and their implications for research and professional practice.
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